of Fresno, California
Sermons on 2 Corinthians
Faith Facts (pt. 5) / A walk of faith in this life requires a proper perspective between the temporal and the eternal.
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt. 27) / A final matter of concern along with some concluding admonitions to the Corinthians!
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt. 26) / A description of the resurrection body we will possess, even those who are “raptured” at the last trump.
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt. 25) / If there is no resurrection, why be baptized (“identified”) in connection with those who have died? Why subject one’s self to the onslaught of persecution that believers face on a daily basis, if the resurrection is not true?
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt. 24) / Christ was risen from the dead as the Firstfruits, the downpayment, the guarantee, of our resurrection. If He did not rise from the dead, then neither will we rise in the order specified.
Considering the Church in Cornith in the 21st Century (pt. 22) / The intent of all the gifts, especially the “sign gifts” (“tongues” and “prophesying”) was to “build up” the local body of Christ in communication of divine revelation. With the completion of the canon of Scripture the supernatural sign gifts are not necessary today. Moreover, they are impossible, given the apostles are no longer present today!
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt. 21) / Without love (“charity”), the ultimate motive for service in the local church, nothing of value is accomplished
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt. 20) / A a human body has many “parts,” each with a specific intended function, together the parts comprise the body to make one whole/complete. So also, the church “body” has many “parts,” each with specific purposes, yet each necessary to make the local church body whole/complete.
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt. 19) / Paul’s teaching on “spiritual” gifts, to be used in the church for the building up of the body, not individuals.
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt. 17) / Paul’s correction of the conduct of the Corinthian believers extended even to their abuse of each other at the Lord’s Table. Here he insists on specific decorum and manners as they “remember the Lord’s death till He come.”
Consider the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt. 15) / Church ministry is not about self indulgence (as illustrated by Israel in the wilderness wandering), but rather focusing on others and the glory of God in all we do, as did Paul!
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt. 13) / Though he was an Apostle, Paul was willing, and often did, forego any privileges inherent in that office for the sake of the gospel being freely presented in absolute sincerity and integrity.
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt. 12) / Instruction is given regarding those who are strong in the faith (mature), on how to treat those who are weak in the faith, preferentially and respectfully.
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt. 12) / Paul’s counsel, during a specific time of distress, is for those who desire to serve the Lord to put off marriage, temporarily, as the “time is short,” and the task is difficult enough without additional temporal concerns of a spouse and family.
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt 11) / The importance and permanence of the marriage relationship a matter to be considered and taken very seriously, in such a cavalier and decadent society.
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt. 10) / Christ has redeemed each believer, body and soul. Therefore, each believer should conduct his/her life body and soul in light of this truth, because we are not our own!
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt. 9) / Because of our blessed responsibilities during the future kingdom, believers today ought to make decisions and value judgments within the ministry of the local church
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt. 8) / Rather than removing wicked immorality from their midst, the church at Corinth did not simply tolerate it, but they were found boasting about its presence within their fellowship. This wickedness had a serious leavening influence in the church body, that required disciplinary action on their part.
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt. 7) / The requirement for Biblical ministry (service) is no success or popularity, but simply faithfulness! This will be determined only by Christ when He returns!
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century / A Christian ministry must be build upon only Christ as the foundation, and utilize the materials that will withstand His evaluation, those He deems worthy of His building!
Considering the Church in Corinth in the 21st Century (pt 5) / Consuming the “meat” of God’s Word is vital to the growth and stability of the NT Church
The Apostle Paul gives us an example of how to live in, through and by faith.
While the gospel is foolishness and a stumblingblock to those who believe not, we must proclaim it accurately and sincerely. It is the only hope for mankind.
The “world” may regard the Gospel as “foolish,” but to believers, it is the focal point, the reason of our existence, the “crux” of the Christian life.
What We Believe / The moment a sinner believes Christ died for his/her sins, and rose again, to the saving of one’s soul, that person is placed into the body of Christ, the Church, of which Christ is the Head. Spirit Baptism is NOT a second work, subsequent to salvation, but simultaneous to salvation.